Story perspectives

Pakistan Rejects UN's Concerns Over Constitutional Amendment

12/1/2025

Summary

Story summary

Pakistan's Foreign Office rejected United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk's concerns about the 27th Constitutional Amendment as ungrounded and misplaced.
The Foreign Office cited insufficient consultation and stated that legislation is the domain of Pakistan's elected representatives.
The amendment, passed swiftly by Parliament, would establish a Federal Constitutional Court and change military leadership structures.
Pakistan urged the United Nations to respect its sovereignty and avoid biased commentary.

History

Historical Context

The 18th Amendment, enacted on April 8, 2010, marked a significant shift in Pakistan's governance by devolving power from the presidency to the parliament, transforming the country into a parliamentary republic. This reform aimed to counter decades of military influence, particularly under leaders like General Pervez Musharraf. The recent 27th Amendment reflects ongoing tensions between military authority and democratic governance.

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Story summary

Pakistan's Foreign Office rejected United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk's concerns about the 27th Constitutional Amendment as ungrounded and misplaced.
The Foreign Office cited insufficient consultation and stated that legislation is the domain of Pakistan's elected representatives.
The amendment, passed swiftly by Parliament, would establish a Federal Constitutional Court and change military leadership structures.
Pakistan urged the United Nations to respect its sovereignty and avoid biased commentary.

1 / 2